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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS12.450

S12.450

Billable

Other traumatic displaced spondylolisthesis of fifth cervical vertebra

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/11/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 S12.450 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other traumatic displaced spondylolisthesis of fifth cervical vertebra.

Key Diagnostic Point:

S12.450 refers to a specific type of spinal injury characterized by the displacement of the fifth cervical vertebra (C5) due to trauma. Spondylolisthesis occurs when one vertebra slips forward over another, which can lead to spinal instability, nerve compression, and significant pain. This condition is often the result of high-impact injuries, such as those sustained in motor vehicle accidents, falls from heights, or sports-related injuries. The displaced vertebra can cause symptoms ranging from localized neck pain to neurological deficits, depending on the severity of the displacement and any associated spinal cord injury. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to assess the degree of displacement and any potential damage to surrounding structures. Management may include conservative treatment options like physical therapy and pain management, or surgical intervention in more severe cases to stabilize the spine and relieve pressure on neural elements.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Requires understanding of specific spinal anatomy and injury mechanisms
  • Differentiation from other types of cervical spine injuries
  • Need for precise documentation of trauma history
  • Potential for associated neurological complications

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the mechanism of injury
  • Failure to specify the degree of displacement
  • Misclassification of the type of spondylolisthesis
  • Lack of clarity on associated neurological symptoms

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Documentation must include a thorough assessment of the patient's trauma history, neurological status, and imaging results.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with neck pain after a fall or motor vehicle accident, requiring immediate imaging and evaluation.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all relevant details of the injury mechanism are documented to support the coding of S12.450.

Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Operative reports must detail the surgical approach, findings, and any stabilization techniques used.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Surgical intervention for severe spondylolisthesis requiring decompression and fusion.

Billing Considerations

Accurate coding requires clear documentation of the surgical procedure and any complications encountered.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S12.450 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring that the code accurately reflects the specific type of injury and its severity
  • Documentation must support the diagnosis and any associated conditions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S12.450 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

22551CPT Code

Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion

Clinical Scenario

Used in cases of severe spondylolisthesis requiring stabilization.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report must detail the procedure and any complications.

Specialty Considerations

Ensure that the surgical approach aligns with the diagnosis of S12.450.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of spinal injuries, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. S12.450 provides a clear designation for traumatic spondylolisthesis, which aids in clinical management and research.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of spinal injuries, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. S12.450 provides a clear designation for traumatic spondylolisthesis, which aids in clinical management and research.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement and quality reporting.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between S12.450 and S12.451?

S12.450 refers to traumatic displaced spondylolisthesis of the fifth cervical vertebra, while S12.451 refers to the same condition without displacement. Accurate coding depends on the presence or absence of displacement as determined by imaging.